Iconic Luftwaffe Issue "B-Uhr" Beobachtungs-Uhr Wristwatch Reimagined by Ailager
- A combination of classic aviation design and modern technology
- The classic watch design used by Luftwaffe aviators during WWII
- Premium finish with a genuine leather strap, an authentic easy-to-read face, and a presentation case
This incredible Ailager-branded Beobachtungs-Uhr (literally 'Observer's Watch') timepiece is modelled on the iconic watches used by Luftwaffe aircrews, especially bomber crews, from 1935 onwards. Originally conceived as a reliable wristwatch with an unambiguous dial for the fledgling Luftwaffe, the B-Uhr featured a larger case and dial than standard for the time. With such accuracy that these watches had to be signed in and out for each mission, the B-Uhr is both a wearable piece of aviation history and a practical modern watch.
Historical Design with Modern Enhancements
The most striking element of a B-Uhr watch is its large case and clean dial. The simple swapping of hour and minute markings—placing minutes at the centre and seconds at the outer edge—made it easier for navigators to count critical minutes and seconds to target. Large silver hands with luminous paint on the minute and hour indicators enhanced visibility, complemented by luminous batons and central dots. This reimagined version uses safer modern luminous paint, which requires recharging under light after 20–30 minutes of illumination, unlike the radioactive elements used in period pieces. The dial is protected by a crystal-clear, cut-glass domed lens.
Authentic Details & Practical Features
Designed to be worn over bulky bomber jackets and flight suits, the B-Uhr features an oversized 7mm textured winder for easy handling. The 42mm matte-finish alloy case pairs perfectly with the black dial and strap, maintaining its function-led design. The double-riveted crazy horse leather strap adds to its authentic aesthetic.
The underside of the watch further enhances its historical recreation, featuring 'Echt Leder' and 'Ailager' stamps on the strap, along with a fully engraved case back detailing the type, production number, and more. A modern update places these engravings on the outside of the case back, allowing wearers to appreciate the details while maintaining the original design’s integrity.
Presentation & Packaging
The Ailager B-Uhr arrives in a beautifully crafted display box with a silver-inscribed nameplate on top and a black grained finish. From its robust leather strap to its oversized winder and accessible dial, the B-Uhr watch brings a practical and affordable piece of aviation history to your wrist.
Key Features:
- High-quality quartz movement
- Battery operated
- Matte-finish alloy case
- Cut-glass domed lens
- Oversized 7mm winder with textured grip
- Glow-in-the-dark minute and hour hands, batons, and dots
- Single large dial with hours and minutes labelled in the centre and seconds around the edge
- Engraved case back with design type, device number, manufacturer, and specification details
- 42mm case size
- Adjustable riveted genuine leather strap in brown crazy horse leather, marked ‘Ailager®’ and ‘Echt Leder’
- Splash and rain resistant
- Ailager® branded display box included
Unleash your inner aviator with the Ailager B-Uhr watch—featuring a bold luminous dial, an oversized winder, and a rugged leather strap for a thrilling blend of vintage aviation aesthetics and modern functionality.
in a few situations, these watches did end up in Allied hands - usually under the following circumstances:
By War Robbery or captured material.
Allied pilots or ground troops inspecting downed German aircraft sometimes took a B-Uhr as a souvenir.
These watches were known for their precision, so it was a sought-after war trophy among crews or technicians.
